Final Thoughts
The Octo VarioS 2 exceeded our expectations. It delivers on its promises, particularly in flow rate, where many pumps fall short. All measured values align closely with the manufacturer’s claims—a rare achievement.
Comparison with Other Pumps
We compared the Octo VarioS 2 with pumps from Amtra, ASF, Eheim, Hydor, Tunze, Sicce, Corallinea, Waveline, and Ecotech Marine. Here’s a summary:
| Pump | Head | Flow Rate | Reference Value | Power Consumption | Price | Efficiency | Economic Efficiency | Yearly cost |
| Eheim 1250 | 195 cm | 1205 l/h | 1175 | 23.8 w | 98 € | 50,6 l/h*w | 12,3 l/h*€ | 56 € |
| Newa Jet 1700 | 200 cm | 1638 l/h | 1638 | 31,2 w | 43 € | 52,5 l/h*w | 38 l/h*€ | 74 € |
| ASF NewJet DC 2000 | 290 cm | 1770 l/h | 2566 | 25,2 w | 99 € | 70,2 l/h*w | 17,9 l/h*€ | 60 € |
| Sicce Syncra 3 | 296 cm | 2375 l/h | 3515 | 42,3 w | 100 € | 56,1 l/h*w | 23,7 l/h*€ | 100 € |
| Rossmont Riser RX 3200 | 281 cm | 2766 l/h | 3886 | 53,7 w | 115 € | 51,5 l/h*w | 24 l/h*€ | 127 € |
| Eheim 1260 | 350 cm | 2434 l/h | 4260 | 62,1 w | 155 € | 32,2 l/h*w | 15,7 l/h*€ | 147 € |
| Tunze 1073.50 | 436 cm | 2143 l/h | 4672 | 38,8 w | 180 € | 55,2 l/h*w | 11,9 l/h*€ | 92 € |
| Octo VarioS 2 | 385 cm | 2766 l/h | 5325 | 25,9 w | 263 € | 106,8 l/h*w | 10,5 l/h*€ | 61 € |
| Sicce Syncra 4 | 380 cm | 3709 l/h | 7047 | 94 w | 160 € | 39,5 l/h*w | 23,2 l/h*€ | 222 € |
| Corallinea BQ5000 | 404 cm | 3504 l/h | 7078 | 83,2 w | 120 € | 42,1 l/h*w | 29,2 l/h*€ | 197 € |
| Rossmont Riser RX 5000 | 364 cm | 4128 l/h | 7513 | 83,7 w | 145 € | 49,3 l/h*w | 28,5 l/h*€ | 198 € |
| Waveline DC6000 | 392 cm | 4008 l/h | 7857 | 50,2 w | 283 € | 79,7 l/h*w | 14,1 l/h*€ | 119 € |
| AMTRA Stream Sump 4000 | 430 cm | 3690 l/h | 7934 | 44 w | 159 € | 83,86 l/h*w | 23,1 l/h*€ | 109 € |
| Hydor Seltz D6000 | 450 cm | 4194 l/h | 9437 | 53 w | 125 € | 79,1 l/h*w | 33,5 l/h*€ | 125 € |
| Ecotech Marine Vectra M1 | 610 cm | 4944 l/h | 15080 | 89,5 w | 399 € | 55,1 l/h*w | 12,3 l/h*€ | 212 € |
The Octo VarioS 2 is not the most economical in terms of flow rate per euro, but its low energy consumption makes it a cost-effective choice in the long run. Its technical efficiency is unmatched, setting a new record at 107 l/h per watt.
Conclusion
The Octo VarioS 2 is a top-tier return pump with a reference value of 5,325 l*m/h (vs. the declared 6,000 l*m/h). Its 12% deviation is excellent compared to competitors, many of which perform far worse. If you’re looking for a reliable, efficient, and quiet pump, the Octo VarioS 2 is hard to beat.
PROS
Record-low energy consumptionExcellent performance, matching declared values
Solid build quality
Nearly silent operation
5-step adjustability
Easy maintenance
CONS
High upfront cost (though easily offset over time)
Disclaimer: We thank Octo for providing the VarioS 2 pump for this review.
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